In the construction dust on the new North Terminal's giant signature windows, someone was inspired to draw a big happy face a fitting symbol of the mood around Detroit Metro Airport after the terminal's completion.

A host of small strategies have yielded one big turnaround for the long-troubled US airline industry. The result: The major U.S. carriers are beginning to turn a profit, collectively, for the first time since the 9/11 terrorist attacks.

If Northwest Airlines manages to avoid a destructive confrontation with its unions, industry experts say the airline would be well placed to survive and perhaps even thrive once it emerges from bankruptcy.

ATA Airlines had a coveted Chicago Midway hub, 64 jetliners and a hard-earned distinction. By 2004, it finally reached the big leagues by becoming the nation's 10th-largest passenger airline. Then the Indianapolis carrier went bankrupt.

US Airways' reliability problems over the weekend could cost it dearly as business and leisure travelers begin weighing the risk of being stranded against supporting the struggling airline. The carrier faces possible liquidation if it can't get lower costs including labor costs in place by Jan. 15.